Expert at the London Clinic recommends diet for IBS

Dr Peter Irving, consultant gastroenterologist at the London Clinic, is promoting a regime called the 'Low FODMAP' diet, which was developed in Australia and has so far proved effective in around 70 per cent of people who follow it.

The diet is based on sugars that can be successfully broken down and absorbed in the small intestine.

This is particularly important for people with IBS, as other sugars may be rapidly fermented in the bowel, producing gas and leading to bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

"Although many people with IBS are keen to try dietary therapy, in the past, studies of dietary treatments have either been of variable quality or have produced conflicting results," explained Dr Irving.

"This new diet offers a really positive outlook for sufferers of IBS and other functional gut disorders," he added.

The London Clinic was established in 1932 and is home to London Digestive Health - a partnership of consultants who specialise in gastrointestinal diseases, including IBS and coeliac disease.